Senior Electrical Engineer

Company Overview

Vard Electro Canada Inc., a subsidiary of Vard Electro AS since 2016, operates from Vancouver and Ottawa offices. The company specializes in electrical engineering design, procurement, and integration for marine vessels, contributing significantly to Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy and acting as a Centre of Excellence within the Vard Group.

Role Summary

The Senior Electrical Engineer will oversee the design, integration, and enhancement of marine electrical systems, guiding multidisciplinary projects from concept to commissioning. This position requires leadership in ensuring adherence to industry standards, collaborating extensively with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Examine vendor information to create precise vessel design documentation.
• Ensure the electrical system requirements are accurately reflected in design documentation.
• Participate actively in internal and external design review meetings.
• Apply comprehensive knowledge of marine electrical systems, including power distribution, propulsion, ship automation, and navigation/communication systems.
• Understand classification society rules and regulations thoroughly.
• Develop plans for commissioning and system activation (Set to Work - STW) of electrical systems.
• Document progress and address non-conformities utilizing Synergi, contributing to accurate as-built documentation.
• Engage hands-on in commissioning activities and system testing onboard vessels.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams during commissioning stages: STW, Harbour Acceptance Tests (HAT), and Sea Acceptance Tests (SAT).
• Conduct HAT, SAT, and Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) to ensure compliance for clients, classification societies, and stakeholders.
• Manage service, modification, and warranty assignments for marine electrical systems.
• Travel frequently and work extended periods at client sites as required.

Authority

• Empowered to decline assignments that conflict with Vard Electro's procedures and safety standards.
• Full authority to make commissioning decisions and adapt procedures within project specifications.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Applied Science, or equivalent qualification.
• Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation or equivalent, or eligibility to obtain certification.
• Extensive expertise in marine electrical systems, power generation and distribution, ship automation, electronics, navigation, and communication systems.
• Proficient in power systems analysis, EMI/EMC, grounding techniques, electrical system layouts, and distribution networks.
• Minimum seven years of post-graduate experience in the marine sector; experience in shipyard engineering and repair/conversion estimations is preferred.
• Advanced knowledge of marine engineering principles and system design.
• Familiarity with Classification Society rules and Flag State regulations.
• General understanding of related disciplines such as naval architecture, vessel structures, outfitting, and electrical engineering.
• Experience working with government and industry designs.
• Proficient in AutoCAD and other relevant engineering software.
• Superior technical writing abilities and English language proficiency in speaking, writing, and comprehension.
• Ability and willingness to undertake international travel and operate in multiple locations.
• Flexible to accommodate varied working hours to address time zone differences.
• Ability to obtain Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP) compliance and government security clearance.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, multitasking, and organizational skills; highly proactive and self-motivated.

Additional Requirements

• Eligibility for Canadian Controlled Goods Program and security clearance is mandatory.
• Legal authorization to work in Canada.
• Preparedness for travel and on-site extended work periods.
• Willingness to maintain flexible working hours.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive annual salary range: CAD 100,000 to 130,000.
• Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) program.
• Extended health benefits including dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• Employee assistance and wellness programs.
• Flexible scheduling and paid time off.
• On-site gym, parking, and social events.
• Transit-accessible office location with hybrid remote working option.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.